As we embrace October as Substance Use Prevention Month, it’s only fitting that we shine a spotlight on the remarkable work being done in local communities to combat the opioid epidemic.

In this edition of Bloom Kentucky’s Growing Hope series, where we’re spotlighting opioid abatement efforts across the Commonwealth, we turn our attention to the Barren River Area Development District (BRADD) Opioid Abatement Coalition’s recent Opioid Symposium.

On September 18, 2023, at the iconic National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, community leaders, experts, advocates, and concerned citizens gathered to discuss a regional approach to navigating the opioid crisis. The event was marked by insightful discussions, moving personal stories, and a shared commitment to fostering positive change.

The summit opened with a warm welcome from Steve Thurmond, setting the tone for a day of collaboration and inspiration. Keynote speaker Doug Griffiths, a former teacher, community activist, and politician from rural Canada, delivered a thought-provoking address titled “13 Ways to Kill Your Community.” Griffiths urged attendees to become champions of their communities by attracting businesses, engaging youth, confronting harsh realities, fostering cooperation, taking responsibility, avoiding complacency, and more. His message resonated as a call to action for those committed to saving their communities from the impacts of addiction.

Following Doug Griffiths’ inspiring speech, a panel discussion featuring a diverse group of experts took center stage:

  • Eric Hagan (Moderator)
  • Austin Griffiths, Ph.D. (Psychological Condition of Addiction)
  • William Moss, M.D. (Clinical Condition of Addiction)
  • Melinda Joyce, Pharm. D. (Chemical Effects of Opioids)
  • Joe Dan Beavers (Treatment of Addiction)
  • Matt Hunt (Multi‐Agency Support for Addiction)
  • Brett Hightower (Community Impact from Addiction)
  • Brandon Reed (Legislative Actions on Addiction)

The panel delved into the psychosocial and clinical aspects of addiction, emphasizing the impact on children and families and the vital need to destigmatize addiction while offering peer support. The discussion also explored the physiological effects of opioids, shedding light on their impact on the brain and physical health. Various treatment options, including peer support and the use of were discussed, along with the role of law enforcement in addressing addiction-related crimes.

The speakers collectively underscored the necessity of prevention, treatment, recovery, and a continuum of care, all while stressing the importance of regional cooperation in the fight against the opioid epidemic. Legislative actions at both the state and federal levels were highlighted, including the management of historic opioid settlement funds by a state-wide Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission and a significant policy shift that no longer criminalizes fentanyl test strips in Kentucky.

After the panel, Amanda, a recovery advocate, bravely shared her personal journey from substance use disorder to recovery and her current role as an Assistant Manager for Haven4Change, where she supports other women on their paths to recovery.

Alicia Webb-Edgington, CEO of the Life Learning Center (LLC), offered insights from her extensive experience in aiding community responses to addiction recovery. She emphasized the power of collaboration and support in helping individuals rebuild their lives. Webb-Edgington’s track record at LLC, where recidivism rates are an astonishing 8% compared to the national average of 83%, underscored the effectiveness of their approach.

James Lay, a graduate of the Life Learning Center, shared his personal experience with the program, highlighting how it provided him with consistent support and helped him and his family find a pathway to success.

Eric Sexton, the Executive Director for BRADD, concluded the summit by discussing various initiatives related to prevention, treatment, recovery, and assurance of care. He emphasized the importance of engaging youth, fostering regional cooperation, and implementing a comprehensive economic strategy to improve the quality of life in the BRADD region.

In closing, Eric and other summit participants encouraged attendees to join working groups focused on regional collaboration and resilience, with the ultimate goal of addressing the opioid epidemic and enhancing community well-being.

The BRADD Regional Opioid Summit exemplified the power of collective action and community engagement. It served as a platform to share information, inspire collective efforts, and chart a regional path to recovery in the face of the opioid crisis. As we navigate Substance Use Prevention Month, let this event stand as a beacon of hope and a testament to what can be achieved when communities come together with determination and compassion.